HBO Shares 1st Look at New Harry Potter as Series Starts Production: Photo

Production on HBO’s upcoming Harry Potter series has officially begun.

“First-years, step forward,” the network shared via Instagram on Monday, July 14. “The HBO Original Harry Potter series is now in production.”

Monday’s announcement came alongside a photo of newcomer Dominic McLaughlin in costume as a reimagined version of Harry Potter. The actor can be seen wearing Hogwarts robes for House Gryffindor along with the character’s circular wire-rimmed glasses. Harry’s signature lightning bolt-shaped scar was on his head as well.

The youngster gave a soft smile as he held up a film clapper, signifying the start of production.

McLaughlin snagged the titular role after HBO held an open casting call for the Golden Trio — Harry, Ron and Hermione — starting in September 2024. Alastair Stout and Arabella Stanton were cast as Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger, respectively.

The forthcoming TV reboot will feature an entirely new cast from the film series, which spanned from 2001 to 2011. J.K. Rowling, who wrote the famed Harry Potter book series, is set to executive produce the upcoming show.

“Max’s commitment to preserving the integrity of my books is important to me, and I’m looking forward to being part of this new adaptation which will allow for a degree of depth and detail only afforded by a long form television series,” Rowling shared in an April 2023 statement.

Along with the three newcomers taking on roles in the project, some other notable stars have already joined the cast. Earlier this year, it was announced that John Lithgow will play Albus Dumbledore.

“It was not an easy decision because it’s going to define me for the last chapter of my life, I’m afraid,” the actor told Screen Rant in February. “But I’m very excited.”

Lithgow added, “Some wonderful people are turning their attention back to Harry Potter. That’s why it’s been such a hard decision. I’ll be about 87 years old at the wrap party, but I’ve said yes.”

Janet McTeer will play Minerva McGonagall, Paapa Essiedu was cast as Severus Snape and Luke Thallon is set to star as Quirinus Quirrell. Rounding out the Hogwarts cast of characters thus far are Paul Whitehouse as Argus Filch and Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid.

Monday’s production announcement also shared more casting news. Rory Wilmot was announced as the new iteration of Neville Longbottom, while Amos Kitson will play Dudley Dursley. Louise Brealey is set to take on the role of Madam Rolanda Hooch alongside Anton Lesser as Garrick Ollivander.

The upcoming Harry Potter series has a projected release date of 2027.